Tag Archives : curtin team real estate

‘Tis the season for New Year’s resolutions! Joanne and I began our New Year’s Day by reflecting on the past year and setting intentions for 2025. I wanted to share some strategies and questions to make your goal-setting process more meaningful. Before diving into the details, let’s explore a few methods to ensure your resolutions truly stick.

Proven Strategies for Goal-Setting Success
Did you know that writing your goals down can increase your chances of achieving them by 40% to 50%? There’s something powerful about putting pen to paper—it engages your subconscious mind and helps clarify what you genuinely want. Typing on your phone or computer just isn’t the same! Once you’ve written your goals, share them with someone who can hold you accountable. Talking about your plans with a trusted friend or partner makes it much more likely you’ll follow through, especially if they check in on your progress.
Now that you’re ready to write down your goals and share them, there’s an important first step to take: reflection. It’s a step many of us skip, but it’s essential for setting intentions that truly matter.

A Crucial First Step: Reflect on the Past
Before you start setting goals, take some time to reflect on 2024. This step not only helps you identify areas for growth but also allows you to build on the successes and lessons of the past year. Joanne and I started our reflection with these two simple but impactful questions:

1. What brought you joy in 2024? Take a positive approach by recalling the moments and people that made you happy. Looking through the photos on your phone can help jog your memory and remind you of what you’d like to continue or expand in 2025.
2. What were your biggest challenges in 2024, and what did you learn from them? Reflecting on difficulties can reveal your resilience and highlight valuable lessons. Recognizing your growth can inspire you to set ambitious but achievable goals for the year ahead.

A Look Further Back: Your Biggest Memory of 2023
Here’s a fun challenge: try to recall your most significant memory from 2023. It’s surprising how quickly memories fade! Reflecting on this can help you focus on what truly matters for 2025. Before you start scrolling through old photos, take a moment to see what comes to mind naturally—it’s a great way to gauge what made the biggest impact on you.

Clarifying Your Vision for 2025
Once you’ve reflected on the past, it’s time to look ahead. Start by asking yourself a few key questions:
* What problems do you most want to solve? Identify small, actionable habits to address these problems. For example, if you want to stop snacking late at night, consider setting an alarm as a reminder or replacing the habit with something positive, like reading a book upstairs away from the kitchen.
* What discipline do you need support with?
* Which relationships need your focus in 2025?
Finally, take a moment to imagine your perfect day in 2025. Create two versions: one for a weekday and one for a weekend. Be realistic—your perfect day should reflect your current responsibilities and lifestyle. For instance, if driving your daughter to school is part of your routine, include that in your weekday scenario. Add as much detail as possible, from the time you wake up to when you go to bed.

Turning Reflection into Action
After answering these questions, you’ll have a clearer picture of what you want to achieve. Writing out your goals in specific categories can be helpful—think financial, business, personal, relationships, spiritual, and health. But remember, goals don’t have to be long lists of bullet points. Lately, Joanne and I have focused on setting goals that bring us joy and bring us closer to living our perfect day more often.
As a couple, supporting each other’s aspirations has deepened our connection. Helping Joanne achieve her goals brings me happiness, and together, we prioritize who we’re becoming, not just what we’re accomplishing.

Make 2025 Your Best Year Yet
The start of a new year is a chance to reflect, dream, and take action. Whether you’re tackling big goals or small habits, I hope these strategies help you approach 2025 with clarity and purpose. Here’s to a year filled with growth, joy, and meaningful progress!

Did you know the real estate market affects you, even if you’re not planning to move or buy a home? Whether you’re a homeowner, renter, or just curious about the economy, the housing market has a ripple effect on everything from personal finances to the broader economy. Understanding these trends can help you stay ahead and make smarter decisions for your future. Curious how? Let’s dive in!

Here are answers and my predictions to four of the most common questions we’re hearing right now:

When Will Mortgage Rates Come Down?
Mortgage rates are influenced by the Federal Reserve’s monetary policy, overall economic conditions, the labor market, and even the geopolitical landscape. Rates have risen as the Fed works to combat inflation. While there’s no exact timeline, many experts suggest rates could stabilize or decrease once inflation is under control and the economy shows consistent signs of improvement. Some predict this could happen in 2025, but it ultimately depends on economic data and future Fed decisions.

For buyers, waiting for lower rates might not always be the best strategy. Acting strategically—such as locking in today’s rates—can make sense, especially as high rates have reduced buyer competition. This often means better negotiating power when purchasing a home.

My prediction? Mortgage rates likely won’t meaningfully reduce until 2026.

When Will Home Prices Come Down?
In short, they won’t—at least not significantly. Housing prices are driven by supply and demand. Currently, most markets in our area face a shortage of inventory, which keeps prices elevated. For prices to drop, we’d need a substantial increase in supply or a major drop in demand. However, cautious builders, a lack of large parcels of land, and homeowners holding onto their low mortgage rates make widespread price declines unlikely.

What we might see instead is a slower rate of appreciation, which offers buyers some relief but not a complete reversal of prices. This environment creates opportunities to purchase at more reasonable valuations with less competition, reducing the risk of buying at a market peak. It’s also a good time to explore long-term rental investments.

My prediction? Our area will return to a normal appreciation rate of 4–5% by 2025.

Will the Housing Market Pick Up Next Year?
The housing market’s trajectory in 2025 will depend on economic stability and consumer confidence. If mortgage rates start to decline, we could see increased buyer activity. Additionally, pent-up demand from buyers who paused their searches due to high rates or election uncertainty could drive new market momentum. Many of these buyers are waiting on the sidelines, ready to jump back in when conditions improve.

My prediction? 2025 will see more home sales than 2024. I do not foresee it as a boom, but
a higher volume than this past year

Is Now a Good Time to Buy?
A market crash like 2008 is improbable. The current market is underpinned by strong fundamentals: tighter lending standards, significant homeowner equity, and sustained demand. While there are challenges —such as affordability issues due to higher prices and rates — these don’t equate to a crash. Instead, the market is undergoing a correction, with cooling in overly hot areas and a shift toward more balanced conditions.What this looks like now is a home selling process that involves negotiation on both sides, more balance between a buyer and seller market. The market will always have fluctuations and instead of fixating on timing the market, focus on securing a home that fits your needs and budget. For both buyers and sellers, this is a time to work closely with real estate professionals to navigate the evolving landscape.

My prediction? While the market presents challenges, strategic buyers who act now can benefit from reduced competition and position themselves for long-term appreciation and stability.

Final Thoughts
The real estate market is always changing, influenced by everything from the economy to politics and even social trends. While rising rates and limited inventory might feel like obstacles, they also open the door to unique opportunities for savvy buyers and investors. By staying informed and understanding the bigger picture, you can make confident decisions—whether you’re searching for your dream home, exploring investment options, or just keeping an eye on the market. Want to know how current trends could impact your plans? Reach out to us today, and let’s discuss your goals!

In this Agent Spotlight video, we introduce Eveline Matthaeus, a dedicated buyer’s agent on the Curtin Team. Eveline brings a wealth of professional expertise to our team, with a background in marketing from Unilever and management advisory from Andersen Consulting. Her unique specialization in assisting expats stems from her personal experience of relocating her family from Switzerland, giving her invaluable insights into the challenges and stresses associated with such moves.

Fluent in four languages, Eveline excels at connecting with people from diverse backgrounds. Her love for data analytics, paired with her honed negotiation skills, provides her clients with a strategic advantage in the competitive real estate market.

Having embraced Georgia and its warm Southern hospitality, Eveline enjoys exploring the area with her husband Marc and their three kids, often accompanied by their beloved rescue dog, Youpi. Whether she’s leading them on adventurous hikes or diligently maintaining her backyard oasis, Eveline brings passion and dedication to every aspect of her life.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Curtin Team channel to stay updated on more enriching content like this!

WATCH THE FULL EPISODE HERE

In this Agent Spotlight video meet Heather Woodruff, a dedicated buyer’s agent on the Curtin Team. Originally from Boston, Heather made the exciting move to Georgia with her family, bringing her extensive real estate experience from the Boston market to the vibrant communities of Alpharetta, Roswell, and East Cobb.

Heather shares her journey of restarting her business in Georgia and the joy she finds in exploring her new surroundings. The move has brought her closer to extended family, and she loves the friendly atmosphere and beautiful spring weather of the South.

Before embarking on her real estate career, Heather was a pediatric physical therapist. Her passion for helping others seamlessly transitioned into real estate when she sold her own home and fell in love with the process. This inspired her to make a significant career change and become a realtor.

Heather holds several special designations in real estate, including being an Accredited Buyer’s Representative (ABR), Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES), Real Estate Collaboration Specialist in Divorce (RCS-D), and certified Real Estate Negotiation Expert (RENE). Her genuine love for getting to know people and her attentive listening skills make her an exceptional agent who truly cares about her clients’ needs.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Curtin Team channel to stay updated on more enriching content like this!

WATCH THE FULL EPISODE HERE

Hey Kids,

As you start exploring the world of real estate investment, I want to share some insights I’ve picked up over the years. Our hometown of Roswell offers opportunities for smart investments. Here are a few tips to help you navigate the real estate landscape and find your own path to success.

Roswell is famous for its beautiful historic homes, top-rated schools, and cool vibe. When thinking about investments, it’s important to understand what makes this area special. Check out market trends, property values, and neighborhood vibes. Keep an eye on new businesses, infrastructure projects, and zoning changes that can boost property values.

You’ve probably heard this a million times, but it’s true: location is everything in real estate. In Roswell, great locations often mean being close to excellent schools, parks, shopping centers, and restaurants. Look for properties in areas like Historic Roswell or nice established neighborhoods. A prime location can make a big difference in rental income and property value.

While Roswell has plenty to offer, it’s smart to diversify your real estate portfolio. Think about a mix of property types—single-family homes, townhouses, even commercial properties. Each type comes with its own perks and risks. Diversifying helps protect against market ups and downs and gives you a balanced approach to building wealth.

When looking at potential investments, check out the condition of the property. Older homes in Roswell might need some work, but they can be real gems if renovated properly. Look for places with room for improvement, like cosmetic updates or expansions. Investing in well-maintained properties or those with high potential can really pay off.

Tap into the expertise of local Realtors (like your ol’ dad here), property managers, and contractors. Their knowledge can give you valuable insights and help you make smart decisions. Networking with these pros can also lead you to off-market deals and opportunities you might not find on your own.

While short-term gains are tempting, real estate is often most rewarding when you think long-term. Consider how property values might appreciate over time and look for areas with strong growth potential. Buy real estate and wait, time will do the rest. Even if you don’t get a screaming deal when you purchase,over time you’re investment will continue to increase. Roswell’s mix of historic charm and modern amenities makes it a great place for long-term investment. Hold onto properties that are likely to grow in value and provide steady rental income. Don’t be tempted to sell with market ups and downs, stay the course.

The real estate market is always changing, so staying informed is crucial. Keep up with local market trends, economic factors, and zoning law changes. Attend local real estate seminars and join investment groups to stay connected and learn new things. Being adaptable and ready to tweak your strategy based on market conditions will help you stay ahead.

Financing is a big part of real estate investment. Explore different options like traditional mortgages, home equity loans, and private lenders. Knowing the terms and conditions of each option and developing trusted relationships with lenders will help you make the best financial decisions. Keep an eye on interest rates and loan conditions, as they can greatly impact your returns. Sometimes it makes sense to buy and lock in a longer term low rate even if the price isn’t great.

Real estate investment isn’t just about making money; it’s also about improving quality of life. Think about how your investments can benefit the community and enhance your own quality of life. Treat your tenants and property well and this will pay dividends over time and lead to sustainable and rewarding investments.

Investing in real estate offers a unique mix of opportunities and rewards. By understanding the market, focusing on prime locations, diversifying your investments, and leveraging local expertise, you can build a successful real estate portfolio. Stay informed, think long-term, and remember the importance of quality of life. With these principles in mind, you’ll be well on your way to making smart and rewarding real estate investments.

I’m so proud of you for taking this step. Remember, this journey is as much about learning and growing as it is about financial success. Trust your instincts, stay curious, and never hesitate to ask for advice. Don’t wait to buy real estate, buy real estate and wait. Here’s to your future success!

With love and wisdom,

Dad

In recent years, one term has dominated economic discussions: INFLATION. A recent survey revealed that 82% of respondents feel the impact of inflation on their household budgets. I want you to consider how investing in the North Atlanta real estate market can be a strategic response to inflationary pressures, especially for first-time investors.

The North Atlanta Real Estate Market in Numbers

Let’s start by looking at the average sales price increases over the past year in key North Atlanta cities:

Milton: From $1,001,114 in 2022 to $1,071,125 in 2023 (an increase of $70,011)
Alpharetta: From $590,609 to $643,293 (an increase of $52,684)
Roswell: From $554,821 to $598,375 (an increase of $43,554)
Woodstock: From $420,110 to $441,110 (an increase of $20,924)

This translates to an average annual increase of 7.3%.

Real Estate as a Hedge Against Inflation
So, how does real estate investment counter inflation? Here are three key ways:

• Rising Rents, Fixed Mortgages: As inflation rises, so do rental prices, while your mortgage rate stays the same. This means your return on investment increases with every rent hike.
• Paying Less Over Time: Inflation devalues future dollars. Since your mortgage payments are fixed, you effectively pay back less over time in real terms.
• Property Value Growth: Inflation typically drives up property values, enhancing the worth of your investment without increasing your mortgage debt.

Beyond Inflation: The Four Pillars of Real Estate Investment
Besides being one of the best hedges against inflation, real estate offers 4 other key benefits. Leverage, passive income, appreciation and tax write-offs.

• Leverage: Use loans from banks or mortgage companies to amplify your investment power.
• Passive Income: Rental income helps pay off your mortgage, building equity in your property.
• Appreciation: Property values tend to increase over time, boosting the worth of your investment.
• Tax Advantages: Benefits like depreciation deductions can reduce your taxable income.

Understanding Return on Investment (ROI)

Consider you buy a property for $100,000 with a 20% down payment ($20,000). If the property appreciates by 5%:

Gain: 5% of $100,000 = $5,000
ROI: $5,000 is 25% of your $20,000 investment
In comparison, to match this in a mutual fund at 10% yield, you’d need a $250,000 investment.

Getting Started in Real Estate Investment
Hopefully I’ve convinced you to at least consider the idea of investing in real estate now. So where do you start? The first step is to define, with as much detail as you can, the criteria of the investment property. Consulting with a Realtor who has experience with investment property can help you gain clarity around what makes a good investment.

• Define Your Criteria: Detail the characteristics of your desired investment property – location, size, age, HOA presence, condition, and price range.
• Local Focus: Most investors focus within 20 miles of their residence. Narrow down your search to one or two areas.
• Market Research: Use online tools to track property prices and potential rental incomes. Visit neighborhoods at different times to get a feel for the area.
• Create Your Property ‘Avatar’: Develop a clear vision of your ideal investment property to streamline your search.
• Due Diligence: Once you have a property in mind, thoroughly check financial aspects like mortgage, insurance, and HOA rules. Consider getting contractor quotes for any potential upgrades or repairs.

Take the Leap

Armed with knowledge and the right strategy, 2024 can be your year to start investing in real estate. As Warren Buffett advises, be bold when others are cautious. Consulting with a knowledgeable Realtor and lender is an excellent first step.

Remember your friends who bought a house right at the beginning of Covid 19? At the time, we thought it was risky, as time went on we see what an amazing opportunity it was to purchase. Similarly, we may be looking back at those friends who purchase in the first few months of 2024 in the same light. There’s hesitancy with Buyers right now between interest rates, an election year and uncertainty in the real estate market.

Our data points to a rising market. The Federal Reserve has already indicated they will ease interest rates in 2024. Waiting for lower rates, like the majority of Buyers will do, means you’ll likely pay more. That’s because as mortgage rates drop, housing demand will surge, driving prices up. As mortgage rates drop, Buyers will come flocking back into the market, driving up competition. So as prices rise, and competition rises, we will be back to multiple offers and Sellers back in the driver seat. There is a window now with a more balanced market. Over the next few months, Buyers don’t necessarily have to make a rushed decision with little due diligence period and reduced negotiating leverage, giving Buyers more time to make an informed decision.

Home prices in our area rose over 6% from the start of 2023. Home prices are expected to continue to rise throughout 2024. Several factors are contributing to home price appreciation in our area. Despite the new home construction that is going on all around us, the new home inventory is still falling short of the housing stock we need. This problem goes back to the recession of 2009-2011, home building came to a screeching halt. For 3 years, we didn’t see any new building, and builders haven’t closed that gap. Adding to that were supply chain issues caused by Covid 19, to some degree builders are still dealing with short supply and labor. There’s still not enough being built at a fast enough pace to meet demand. Couple this with the homeowners who are not willing to part with their 3% mortgage rate, there are not enough homes on the market. Supply and demand dictates prices. More supply of Buyers, less supply of homes equals rising prices. Additionally, we continue to have a healthy supply of Buyers relocating to our area from out of state, attracted to the lifestyle and affordability compared to many other metro areas. Many out of state Buyers purchase in the late Spring and Summer (choosing to move in between school sessions). Waiting will place you in direct competition with these Buyers who often have company support and a tight timeline, making for tough competition. Often they are willing to pay asking price or above to secure their housing quickly and get settled in their new job and state.

If you’re renting, and you’re financially able to purchase, you should consider buying now. The sooner you purchase a home, the sooner you start building equity through mortgage paydown and price appreciation. Your costs are fixed, unlike rent that is likely to be increased each year. And when mortgage rates fall, you can consider refinancing. There’s peace of mind having predictability with your monthly housing costs. Inflation, interest rates or a change in your landlord’s situation will not impact your housing or payment situation once you’ve locked into a fixed rate loan in your own home. There are tax advantages you may be missing as a renter as well. Consult with your CPA for how these tax breaks would apply to you as some income limitation may apply, here are a few common ones.
 Mortgage Interest- you can deduct your mortgage interest.
 Real Estate Taxes – you can deduct state and local taxes in the year you pay them.
 Home Office Deduction – if you’re a small business owner who works from home and use part of your home exclusively for the primary place of business, you can deduct many home expenses.

In this exclusive interview, Joanne Curtin sits down with one of the brightest stars on the Curtin Team, Agent/ Partner Shari Sautner. Shari’s journey in the real estate industry has been nothing short of remarkable, and in this spotlight interview, she shares her insights, experiences, and the key role that joining the Curtin Team has played in her business’s impressive growth.

Shari Sautner, a dynamic and passionate real estate agent, has made significant strides in the industry since becoming a part of the Curtin Team. With her dedication, knowledge, and commitment to providing exceptional service, Shari has not only thrived but also set a shining example for aspiring real estate professionals.

In this candid conversation, Joanne delves into Shari’s personal and professional journey, exploring the pivotal moments that have shaped her career. From the early days of building her client base to the strategies and support that the Curtin Team has provided, Shari shares invaluable tips, insights, and real-world experiences that have led to her remarkable success.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Curtin Team YouTube channel to stay updated on more enriching content like this!

Joanne Curtin Interviews Curtin Team Agent Partner, Shari Sautner

WATCH THE FULL EPISODE HERE

In this engaging video, join host Joanne Curtin as she sits down with Curtin Team Agent Partner, Kanani Briggs for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation. You’ll learn about Kanani’s unwavering commitment to fostering community connections and how it has become an integral part of her personal and professional life.

Kanani Briggs is not your typical real estate agent; she is a force of nature when it comes to building bridges within her community. With a warm and inviting personality, she has earned the trust and admiration of countless individuals, both clients and neighbors alike.

But it’s not just about business for Kanani Briggs. Throughout this conversation, you’ll witness her genuine love for people and the places they call home. She discusses her involvement in various community initiatives and how giving back has become a cornerstone of her life. Kanani’s passion for community connection goes beyond transactions; it’s about building lasting relationships and nurturing the spirit of togetherness.

In addition to her dedication to community, Kanani’s remarkable journey in real estate is highlighted by her exceptional achievements. She proudly received the “Rookie of the Year” award in her very first year in the industry, a testament to her dedication and hard work.

Aspiring and seasoned agents alike, take note: Kanani Briggs has invaluable advice for you. She emphasizes the importance of seeking out mentorship or joining a successful team. Her guidance is a beacon for those looking to thrive in the real estate world.

So, whether you’re a homeowner, aspiring to be one, or simply someone who values community bonds, this interview with Kanani Briggs is a must-watch. Join us as we explore the world of real estate through the lens of someone who believes that building strong communities is the key to a better future. Don’t miss this opportunity to be inspired and learn how you can make a positive impact on the place you call home, just like Kanani does every day.

Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe to the Curtin Team channel to stay updated on more enriching content like this!

Joanne Curtin Interviews Curtin Team Agent Partner, Kanani Briggs

WATCH THE FULL EPISODE HERE

https://youtu.be/PYNUfmLAhPk

In the heart of a bustling city lies the promise of a dynamic future, shaped by the vision, determination, and leadership of its residents and officials. Roswell, a city known for its vibrant community and rich history, stands at a crossroads where possibilities are endless. Joanne Curtin, sits down with Mayor Kurt Wilson, a visionary leader committed to propelling Roswell into a new era of prosperity. This candid conversation is about the city’s future trajectory, the challenges it faces, and the timeless principles of leadership that will guide its journey towards an even brighter future.

Joanne: Thank you for having me over today. I am admiring your wall of photos here. Can you tell me more about it?

Mayor Wilson: I am glad you’re here. It’s a pleasure to finally meet you. I’ve enjoyed your “Behind The Curtin” videos. These photos on the wall are all people that have had an impact on me.

Joanne: I think it’s great that you reflected on who to put up there. That’s awesome, because you don’t get where you’re going without learning from others. So, if you could have dinner any of these people, who would you invite?

Mayor Wilson: That’s a great question. I would probably be more contemporary oriented than historically oriented. I definitely would talk to Mother Theresa. Everything I read about her is authentic, honest, and courageous. She’s an incredible warrior who has this great courage most of wish we had and she’s challenging her faith all the time. And Johnny Carson, of course. My dad was Carson’s doppelganger, they looked like twins.

Joanne: Most of our clients are in the area we like to call “The Platinum Triangle”, that’s Roswell, Alpharetta, and Milton. I’m curious about what you think sets Roswell apart from Alpharetta and Milton?

Mayor Wilson: I love my sister cities, let’s start there. I routinely have the mayors of Alpharetta and Milton over to my home. I believe in personal engagement because we are all in this together. Roswell has been successful in part because it won the geographic lottery. It was once the crown jewel of North Fulton County. Now, I acknowledge that Alpharetta has grown and they have some advantages over us, take for example the number of exits off the 400. Whereas Milton has stuck to their vision of being made up of mostly single-family homes. And that works for them.

The city of Roswell is 42 square miles, that’s it. And 65% of that is made up of single- family homes. We’re looking at the other 35% that, until now, did not have a viable long term economic strategic narrative. How do we get ahead in terms of industry? We can’t chase manufacturing businesses that we don’t have the room for. And without an intentional strategy, someone else was going to make the strategy for us – the state, the federal government, Fulton county. When I came in to office it was clear to me that Roswell needed to be a city of 120,000 people in 20 years. We are currently at 96,000. That means the city of Roswell is going to be very intentional. In other words, the development community is not going to come to us. We’re going to do the placemaking for the development community. As I said, we have limited space, 42 square miles, and because we have limited space we have scarcity. So, we’re about to use that to our economic advantage. The city is already heavily invested in zero based budgeting. That means we’re really serious about how we spend our money and reimagining how each department works and what services to provide, from an entrepreneur perspective. We are looking at what we do well, and what we don’t do so well.

Joanne: Since you’ve been in office, what’s something you are most proud of?

Mayor Wilson: All credit goes to God and my team. I am proud to say we’ve gotten more done in 12 months that has been done in 20 years. We have the best in class police force focused on de-escalation, a full-time fire department, and passage of the $180 million dollar bond overwhelmingly approved by voters.

I am a big believer that we’re building our organization in a different way. I hope we are building a political legacy and leadership that will last beyond my term. The question we ask ourselves is “what’s the right thing to do for the city of Roswell?” I hope the legacy is an organization that is highly competent, highly effective.

Joanne: You talked about looking at things done well and things that need improving. Is there something in particular that you’re working on?

Mayor Wilson: Communication is the hardest thing for us. We’re a fairly static organization and it seems we’re always playing defense. The challenge is to reach people with consistent, authentic, and sophisticated messaging.

I really believe that leadership has responsibility, not just for governing, but for bringing rational discussion into the marketplace. The overwhelming majority of us want to have sober discussions with healthy skepticism. I hope we heal the acrimony that has overtaken our political debates.

Roswell is a great place to live, There’s an unbelievable quality of life here. And I want to people who live here to really know that, to enjoy it, and to celebrate it.

Joanne: We love Roswell. In 2017, Tom and I started a 501c3 non-profit, Curtin Team Cares. We are committed to helping local families and organizations where help is needed most. Currently we are actively working with the Children’s Development Academy of Roswell (CDA). Are there any other organizations in Roswell that you feel others should know about?

Mayor Wilson: I love our community and I love CDA with the leadership of Maggie DeCan. I believe in the mission of CDA [www.cdakids.org]. We have so many great charities that operate in Roswell. HomeStretch [www.homestretch.org], North Fulton Community Charities [www.nfcchelp.org] with Sandy Holiday at the helm, Sunny and Ranney [www.sunneyandranney.com], and can’t forget The Cottage School [www.cottageschool.org]. The Cottage School has a beautiful mission and has really helped save students and their families.

Joanne: Since we’re in the South, I’m sure you know that people are just as interested in where you are from as who you are for.

Mayor Wilson: You saved the toughest question for last. Well, I grew up in Huntsville, Alabama where half the town loves Alabama and the other half loves Auburn. I went to college at Ole Miss. And then I moved to Georgia and I’m still learning how to respond whenever someone says, “Go Dawgs!”. I love the Braves. So, I guess, I root for everyone. How’s that for a politician’s response?

Joanne: (laughs) Okay. That’s a fair answer. It’s been pleasure talking to you today. I am excited to hear about the new developments in Roswell that will soon be announced. We’ll have to meet up again so we can talk more about them.

Mayor Wilson: Thank you! It’s been a pleasure talking to you. Roswell is a remarkable place and I’m looking forward to its bright future.